words by Chance Solem-Pfeifer

For the first 20 seconds of No Tide’s Meridian, you have no idea what kind of record it’s going to be.

Even if the next 15 minutes of the EP place it snugly in the pop punk category, this second abbreviated offering from the Lincoln band is capable of moments that derail routine and show that the punk musicians could play nice if they had to.

And when they’re not playing nice on Meridian, the punk band plays smart. The complementary writing styles of lead vocalist Will Conner and lead guitarist Shane Standlea brew into five songs that are as bonded by themes of introspection and flight as they are differentiated by now-you-see-me drum fills and clever interludes.

Meridian was released digitally back on May 29, but this Friday, No Tide will drop their first ever vinyl at Knickerbockers with Better Friend, Man The Less and Amburst. The first 50 people through the door will receive a free 7-inch. Next month, the Lincoln four-piece will embark on a two-week tour of the East Coast, including shows with The Weeds.

But first, preview Friday’s show with this album review podcast:

"Meridian" by No Tide | On the Record Podcast by Hear Nebraska

Chance Solem-Pfeifer is Hear Nebraska’s staff writer. He recommends sampling No Tide’s acoustic release from last year for a precursor of the subtleties you might find on this EP. Reach him at chancesp@hearnebraska.org.